The Least and Most Popular Wedding Dress Styles, According to Bridal Buyers

When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, It trends perhaps only play a small part in the decision-making on such a personal, special garment. But as with everything else that ebbs and flows—jean silhouettes, bag sizes, heel heights—there are some common themes around what’s popular right now across the bridal market, as well as what’s not. And no one is better equipped to speak to the least and the most popular wedding dresses better than the experts below.

Gathering insight from bridal buyers and store owners, we were able to deduce that, when it comes to wedding day style, many brides are forgoing over-the-top fussiness for designs that are more understated and practical, even. Perhaps unsurprisingly, traditional wedding fabrics like lace continue to be a fan favorite. Keep scrolling for all the wedding dress styles experts say brides-to-be can’t get enough of.

Vatana Watters, founder of Watters

“Our bride is all about lace. She loves styles that feature graphic lace patterns with dimensional bodices and modern silhouettes. We are also seeing lots of brides fall in love with lace alternatives, such as intricate embroidery and burnout fabrics. Today’s bride has so many raw yet refined styles to choose from. We are seeing less brides seek out styles that are very formal or overcomplicated.”

Lanie List, founder of Lovely Bride

“At Lovely Bride, everyone is asking for clean sleek ball gowns. These aren’t princess gowns, though! The bodice is very fitted and sexy with lower cut outs in the neckline and armhole. And, of course, the dress has pockets! We see our brides pairing this look with oversize sunglasses and white booties. It has a ’60s mod trend that we are loving!

“What is not happening anymore is overly embellished sheath gowns. This vintage nod had a very long run, but it started to dwindle with the last season of Downton Abbey.”

Beth Drake, buyer at David’s Bridal

“This season one of the more popular design details is showcasing the shoulders, a fashion-inspired trend that translates to bridal, offering a subtler approach to sexy. Two contemporary ways to give brides their shoulder moment are with a cutaway, high neckline or a sleek off-the-shoulder style.”

Up next: what stylish women never travel to Paris without.